Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances nationwide. Unfortunately, it often results in individuals making risky choices that can impact both their health and social well-being. In Indianapolis, for example, driving under the influence can lead to severe consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, and license suspension.
Moreover, habitual alcohol use can lead to chemical dependence, requiring professional help from alcohol rehabilitation programs. Fortunately, Indianapolis offers numerous treatment options for those struggling with alcohol dependence.
Each year, alcohol use contributes to various issues across the United States. It is estimated that around 88,000 people die annually due to alcohol-related causes, making it the third leading cause of preventable death in the country, surpassed only by tobacco use and poor diet/exercise habits.
One significant issue associated with alcohol consumption is drunk driving. Although it is a danger widely discussed from a young age, drunk driving continues to affect thousands of lives each year.
Exploring Drunk Driving in the U.S. In the United States, 29 people die every day due to alcohol-impaired driving accidents, translating to one death approximately every 50 minutes. In 2016 alone, nearly 10,500 individuals lost their lives in crashes involving alcohol, accounting for over a quarter of all traffic-related fatalities in the country.
Alcohol affects both the body and mind, with these effects becoming more pronounced as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) increases:
- 02% BAC: Typically reached after two drinks, leading to a slight loss of judgment, a feeling of warmth, and diminished visual abilities, which can impair driving.
- 05% BAC: Reached after roughly three drinks, resulting in exaggerated behavior, reduced muscle control, and lowered alertness. This level can impair coordination, make tracking moving objects more difficult, and affect emergency responses.
- 08% BAC: Usually reached after four drinks, causing significant issues with muscle coordination and danger perception, leading to concentration problems, impaired speed control, and reduced driving abilities.
- 10% BAC: Occurs after around five drinks, leading to slower reaction times and impaired control, which can make it difficult to maintain lane position or brake appropriately.
- 15% BAC: Typically reached after seven drinks, resulting in severe muscle control loss, vomiting, and major balance issues. This level of impairment greatly hinders vehicle control and attention to driving.
Marijuana
It’s important to recognize that driving under the influence of marijuana is on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 13 percent of nighttime weekend drivers test positive for marijuana. Additionally, marijuana users are found to be 25 percent more likely to be involved in a crash compared to those who do not use the substance, although other factors may have contributed to this statistic.
Alcohol Abuse in Indiana
Whether it involves marijuana or alcohol, substance-impaired driving is a significant issue across the nation. To understand these challenges better, we can examine specific states. While the situation in Indiana is not dire, there is definitely room for improvement.
Older data from the Indiana University Center for Health Policy indicates that alcohol consumption in Indiana increased during the early 2000s. Unfortunately, this rise in alcohol use can lead to various health issues, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Stroke
- Cancer, among others
These aren’t the only problems, as there are also short-term effects that can impair driving abilities.
Drunk Driving in Indiana
Between 2009 and 2018, the CDC reported over 2,000 deaths in Indiana involving drunk driving. While the drunk driving rate in Indiana was lower than the national average, it still demands attention.
Clearly, Indiana faces serious challenges related to alcohol use and other substances. So, what can be done to address these issues?
Alcohol Rehab in Indianapolis
Whether the issue is alcohol, opioids, illicit drugs, or other substances, numerous treatment options are available for individuals dealing with substance abuse.
If you’re seeking drug or alcohol rehabilitation in Indiana, particularly in Indianapolis, many facilities are available. The challenge lies in finding the right one.
When searching for the best rehab center in Indiana, consider looking for facilities that provide specific services. For instance, it’s beneficial to find a center that offers detoxification services, as medical detox is often necessary for individuals entering treatment, especially those with alcohol dependence, to ensure a safe withdrawal process.
In addition, it’s wise to seek out a facility that provides access to evidence-based treatment methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can help patients address the triggers that lead to their substance use.
Furthermore, ensure that the rehab facility you’re considering can create a comprehensive aftercare plan following discharge from an inpatient program. Many rehabilitation centers in Indianapolis will set up patients with outpatient programs to continue their recovery journey.
These are some key factors to consider when exploring rehab facilities in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana.
Take the Right Steps Toward Recovery
If you’re seeking a reputable treatment center in Indiana that provides evidence-based therapies in a modern facility, Sunrise Recovery in Clarksville, Indiana is here to help. Our mission is to save one million lives over the next century. We understand the significant impact of the opioid crisis and alcohol use on our community and are committed to being part of the solution.
For more information, please call +1(877)978-6747 to speak with a member of our admissions team.
